The ceremonial burning of a stolen car marks the end of summer on the Chatsworth Estate in Manchester. Meet the local family — the Gallaghers. There's dad Frank and his six kids, Lip, Ian, Carl, Debbie, Liam and Fiona. Into their world steps Steve. Cool, well mannered, well dressed and romantic, he makes a beeline for big sister Fiona. Steve's soon getting his feet under the table but why he wants them there, no one quite knows.